Welcome to this Wiki Pathfinder on the subject of substance abuse for middle school teenagers. Substance abuse is a broad topic covering alcohol, tobacco, prescription, over-the-counter, and illegal drugs. Several theories abound on why some people become addicted to different substances and others do not. Various reasons include the belief that it is due to genetics, self-esteem issues, a desire to fit in, wealth, poverty, culture, influence of the media, or just plain bad luck. Despite numerous theories on how people become addicted, one fact remains indisputable and that is that prevention of substance abuse is our most effective weapon in the fight against it. Even people who are not using drugs are impacted by the far-reaching implications to families, economies, states, and countries.
This pathfinder provides resources in the form of carefully selected and evaluated books, journal articles, and web sites geared toward the middle school teenager for research purposes and personal exploration. They highlight findings in the following topical areas: how a teen’s family background, friends, and personality type influences the choices made on drug use, the multiple effects of drug use on individuals and societies, and effective drug prevention programs that are being used today in schools, communities, and social settings when just saying no is not enough. (JM)
Essential Questions:
How do young people's family background, friends and personality type influence the choices that they make on drug use?
How would you describe the effects of drug abuse on an individual, a family and society? Financial? Emotional? Physical?
Do you think drug prevention programs are successful? How would you design an effective program to prevent teen substance abuse?
How do young people's family background, friends and personality type influence the choices that they make on drug use?(EO)
Wilkinson, Beth. Drugs and Depression. Center City, MN: Hazelden Information & Educational Services, 1997.
The author’s main goal is to convince readers that difficult family situations and depression – which often drives youth to experiment with drugs – will not be alleviated by medications or street drugs, but it will often make the situation worse. She recommends various ways to deal with depression without drugs. (EO)
Webb, Margot. Drugs and Gangs. New YorK: Rosen Publishing Group, 1995.
The book discusses not only how gangs and illegal drug dealing are connected, but the effects of various substances and how to avoid getting involved with criminal goups. (EO)
Hyde, Margaret O and John F. Setard. Alcohol 101: An Overview For Teens. Brookfield, CT: Twenty-First Century Books, 1999.
This is an excellent overview of drinking in society, both in moderation in extreme forms. The authors discuss general attitudes, addiction, connection with other risky behaviors and possible criminal consequences as well as how to get help. (EO)
Hyde, Margeret O. Drugs 101. Minneapolis, MN: Lerner Publishing Group, 2003.
The author discusses not only the effects of commonly used drugs, but also related legal and criminal issues. She gives solid advice on where to turn with drug related problems, as well as further reading both in print and online. (EO)
JOURNAL ARTICLES
Bower, Bruce. "Without Substance." Science News 173.14 (05 Apr. 2008):
211. Middle Search Plus. EBSCO. Madison Public Library, Madison NJ. 12 July 2008
<http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=mih&AN=31643992&site=ehost-live>.
This article reports on the results of a small research projects that aimed to find out whether ADHD or the drugs administered to tread ADHD had any effect on young adults’ later drug abuse. The study found that ADHD patients treated early had about the same percentage of later drug abuse as the control group, but if left untreated, ADHD increased the likelihood of adult onset drug abuse. (EO)
"Prescription Drugs: Their Use and Abuse." Science World 62.4 (06 Mar. 2006): 13. Middle Search Plus. EBSCO. Madison Public Library, Madison, NJ. 12 July 2008 <http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=mih&AN=19720948&site=ehost-live>.
The article discusses the common ways for teenagers to abuse medications, their possible reasons and the associated dangers. According to the author, the reason for the growth of subscription drug abuse is easy availability and the mistaken belief that they are not as dangerous as street drugs. (EO)
Stockwell, Cassidy. "Prescription Problems." Scholastic Math 28.2 (19 Nov. 2007): 6. Middle Search Plus. EBSCO. Madison Public Library, Madison, NJ. 12 July 2008 <http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=mih&AN=27426507&site=ehost-live>.
Tom Hedrick, spokesperson of Partnership for a drug-free America, discusses the possible causes and dangers of medication abuse. He points out how reasons for self-medication are also dependent on gender. (EO)
WEB BASED RESOURCES
NIDA For Teens: The Science Behind Drug Abuse. 2008. National Institute On Drug Abuse. <http://teens.drugabuse.gov/>.
The “Real Stories” section of this website contains first person accounts of teenagers who developed an addiction. They give their reasons for using drugs and how they recovered. The website’s main purpose is to educate young adults (age 12-17) on the effects and dangers of commonly abused substances. A glossary, various games and quizzes help students understand the facts. Tips and phone numbers are included for addiction counseling. (EO)
Volkow, Nora D.. "Drug Abuse And Addiction." National Institute on Drug Abuse: The Science of Abuse and Addiction. 11 June 2008. NIDA. 13 Jul 2008 <http://www.nida.nih.gov/scienceofaddiction/addiction.html>.
This page is part of a booklet that describes our newest understanding of drug addiction. It gives common reasons why people first try drugs, risks factors for addiction, and how the brain changes after repeated use of substances. Aimed at older teens and adults, the page also answers the commonly asked question: why do some people get addicted while others do not. (EO)
Drug Abuse and Substance Abuse Information. 2008. Partnership For a Drugfree America. < http://www.drugfree.org/>
The website contains articles about the newest trends, action alerts for parents, statistics and research results. The teen link allows students to check how they or their friends stand with drugs, allows them to upload stories of their own drug use on a moderated page where advice is often found next to the users’ questions. Movie clips make the site attractive and easy to understand for both teens and parents. (EO)
How would you describe the effects of drug abuse on an individual, a family and society? Financial? Emotional? Physical? (SS)
KidsHealth.org (SS) http://kidshealth.org/teen/drug_alcohol/drugs/know_about_drugs.html
Targeted to teenagers, this Web page offers a general overview of drug use, how teenagers approach drugs, and a comprehensive listing of common legal and illegal drugs. Each listing contains the drug’s street names, common usage, addictiveness, and the effects and dangers of using that particular drug on the body.
CheckYourself.com (SS) http://checkyourself.com/Resources.aspx
This Web page also offers a drug database that compares the “hype” of a drug with the “reality”, including long-term physical detriments. The Web site additionally offers first-hand accounts of teenagers and the negative consequences of their drug abuse on their lives and their families.
JOURNAL ARTICLES
GET THE FACTS: Drug Abuse Puts Your Whole Body at Risk (SS)
“GET THE FACTS: Drug Abuse Puts Your Whole Body at Risk”. Science World. 63(13), 16 April 2007, 20-21. Retrieved from Middle Search Plus.
A concise reference to how drugs can affect the various systems within your body, as well as how drug abuse can lead to major health concerns such as heart disease. The mental consequences of drug use are also presented, including paranoia and depression.
'E' Is for Empty (SS)
D'Angelo, Laura. "'E' Is for Empty." Junior Scholastic, 105(10) (2003): 16. Retrieved from Middle Search Plus.
This article recounts the experiences of a teenager who successfully fought drug addiction. It explores the reasons why he started taking drugs, the effects of Ecstacy on his body and how and why he realized that he needed to quit.
BOOKS
Drug Abuse & Teens: A Hot Issue (SS)
Mastine, Shelagh Ryan. Drug abuse & teens: A hot issue. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers, 2000.
Using real-life examples of drug abuse and its lethal consequences, the book reveals the physical and psychological tolls drug use has on the individual. The overall cost to society is also discussed, as well as how to find help.
Drug abuse: opposing viewpoints (SS)
Roleff, Tamara (ed). Drug abuse: Opposing viewpoints. Farmington, Mich : Greenhaven Press, 2005.
The Opposing Viewpoints series of books offers teenagers a variety of topics that are argued from differing positions. This book on drug abuse includes debate about whether illicit drugs are harmful, the causes of abuse and addiction, the constitutionality of drug testing, and the legalization of drugs in the United States. It discusses the War on Drugs and argues both its effectiveness and benefit.
Dangerous Legacy: The Babies of Drug-taking Parents (SS)
Sonder, Ben. Dangerous Legacy: The Babies of Drug-taking Parents. New York: Franklin Watts, 1994.
This book offers a sobering look at how poor decisions on the part of parents can lead to unhealthy children. Beginning with an overview of drugs’ role in America, it discusses cocaine/crack, opiates, alcohol, tobacco/marijuana, and their subsequent effects on an unborn baby.
The House that Crack Built (SS)
Taylor, Clark. The House that crack built. San Francisco: Chronicle Books, 1992.
Seemingly a children’s picture book, The House that Crack Built offers a poignant look at how drug use affects people in different countries and in different situations: from teenagers, gang members, crack-addicted babies, and the farmers who are forced to earn a living by producing the coca crop.
The war on drugs: opposing viewpoints (SS)
Thompson, Stephen (ed). The war on drugs: Opposing viewpoints. Farmington, Mich: Greenhaven Press, 2005.
Also offering differing points of view, this book focuses on the United States’ office “War on Drugs.” Arguments are made regarding drug legalization, preventative programs, and mandatory minimum sentencing. Additionally, one debate is conducted on the role of drug use in supporting terrorism—one consequence of drug use that reaches beyond the individual, family, or city.
OTHER
“The Impact of Illicit Drug Use on American Institutions: Compromising the Nation’s Health” (SS)
Available at: http://www.drugfree.org/Portal/About/
While intended for an adult audience by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, this white paper presents a detailed overview of how drug use affects American families, society at large, and particular American institutions such as the educational, social welfare, healthcare, and criminal justice systems. It additionally enumerates the growing trends in illicit drug use nationally, as well as drug use among the poor and minority groups.
Do you think drug prevention programs are successful? How would you design an effective program to prevent teen substance abuse? (JM)
Keywords:
substance/drug abuse, addiction, prevention, programs, resistance, avoidance, education, abatement, cessation
drug-free, anti–drug, prescription drugs, OTC (over the counter) drugs, club drugs, tobacco, alcohol, illegal
youth, teens, teenagers, kids, students
(All sources below are cited in APA format)
WEB BASED RESOURCES
TeensHealth http://kidshealth.org/teen/
TeensHealth provide teens and families with accurate, up-to-date, and jargon-free health information they can use. On the Web since 1995, it is the largest and most visited site providing doctor-approved health information about children from before birth through adolescence. There are separate areas for kids, teens, and parents - each with its own design, age-appropriate content, and tone. There are literally thousands of in-depth features, articles, animations, games, and resources - all original and all developed by experts in the health of children and teens. The link to “Drugs and Alcohol” contains information, articles, and further resources for teens on topics such as smoking, drinking, and drugs. (JM)
National Association of State Alcohol &Drug Abuse Directors/National Prevention Network http://www.nasadad.org/index.php?doc_id=24
The National Prevention Network (NPN), the prevention component of NASADAD, is an association of professionals dedicated to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention programs. They offer services to reduce and prevent the number of problems associated with those substances and to promote well-being and health. The “Prevention” tab on the left of the homepage links to several web sites for organizations and facilities that maintain a strong focus on alcohol and other drug abuse and addiction prevention. (JM)
Stop Alcohol Abuse http://www.stopalcoholabuse.gov
This site is a portal of Federal government resources for information on underage drinking and ideas for combating this issue. People interested in underage drinking prevention—including students, parents, educators, community-based organizations, and youth—will find a wealth of valuable information here. There are three action guides--specifically for families, communities, and educators and these guides highlight what each group can do to reduce underage alcohol use in America and help prevent the problems underage drinking causes. Young people often face the challenge of standing up to peer pressure and deciding not to use alcohol. The resources found by clicking on the “Youth” tab at the top of the homepage will help them take a stand against underage alcohol use and discover fun, alcohol-free ways to spend their time. (JM)
Teen Help http://www.teenhelp.com
TeenHelp.com was developed for parents of teens as well as teens going through common adolescent development issues. It has a team of article writers and editors across the U.S. The goal is to educate and bring awareness to parents and teens on various issues. Although there are Google ads on the site, it offers numerous articles on alcohol and drug abuse and their prevention among youth. (JM)
BOOKS
Aue, P.W. (2006). Teen drug abuse. Detroit, MI: Thomson/Gale.
Several substance abuse topics are presented with different viewpoints from various sources so you can make up your own mind about substance abuse issues. The book contains charts to help explain the information and there are cartoons to lighten up the subject matter. Each chapter has discussion questions and a bibliography of periodicals for further research. (JM)
Jasper, M. (2003). Teenagers and substance abuse. Dobbs Ferry, NY: Oceana Publications.
In addition to looking at teen substance abuse, this books talks about the efforts and strategies used by schools and other groups to stop illegal drug and alcohol use, including the government’s crackdown on the Internet for selling “club drugs.” (JM)
Karson, J. (2007). Teen addiction. Detroit, MI: Greenhaven.
Personal accounts, case studies, and factual essays are presented covering topics such as how the media promotes alcohol and cigarettes, what some of the different factors are that cause teen addiction and also its prevention and treatment. (JM)
Mezinski, P. (2004). Drugs explained: the real deal on alcohol, pot, ecstasy, and more. New York: Amulet Books.
This book offers solid information and advice for students in grades 7-10 in a friendly, non-preachy, 3-part style including a teen’s diary in part 1, the effect of drugs and their avoidance in part 2, and a debate over legalization of drugs in part 3. In addition the book has statistics about teen drug use, a self-test with answers, and a table of principal substances. Best of all, its funny cartoons and portable size add appeal for reluctant readers. (JM)
JOURNAL ARTICLES
(Retrieved from the Middle Search Plus database)
A Day in the life of a teen. (2006). Science World, 62(13), 8-11. http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdf?vid=137&hid=106&sid=750beec5-53ed-4891-9b0d-352a8b7c2bb4%40sessionmgr107
It’s important for teens to make good decisions in social settings where substance abuse may occur. This article provides teens with scripted responses for those awkward situations as well as facts and colorful graphs about drug use from the National Institute on Drug Abuse about how many teens abuse drugs, the types of drugs they abuse and teens’ perceptions on the subject. (JM)
Adair, J. (2000, March). Tackling Teens' No. 1 Problem. Educational Leadership, 57(4), 44-48. http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdf?vid=133&hid=106&sid=750beec5-53ed-4891-9b0d-352a8b7c2bb4%40sessionmgr107
The article examines how middle and high schools in the U.S. are handling substance abuse then gives an in-depth look at Project Alert, a school drug prevention plan designed for middle schools that uses role play, videos, brainstorming, etc. to teach refusal skills and how to behave in social settings when substances are offered. (JM)
Daly, M. (2005). Clean teens. Current Health 2, 31(8). http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?vid=141&hid=106&sid=750beec5-53ed-4891-9b0d-352a8b7c2bb4%40sessionmgr107
An empowering article emphasizing that choosing not to get involved in substance abuse is a personal decision that merits respect and advocates that teens participate in alternative activities and organizations. It explains how a teen may remain friends with others who party while gracefully refusing and remaining socially responsible. (JM)
Winning the Fight Against Drugs. (1999, February). Current Health 1, 22(6), 6-12. http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?vid=130&hid=106&sid=750beec5-53ed-4891-9b0d-352a8b7c2bb4%40sessionmgr107
This article enumerates several ways that young people can fight substance abuse and become aware of drugs and their effects. It asks students to examine their values and choose their friends wisely while also providing 10 suggestions for what to say when others won’t take “no” for an answer. It provides a list of several drug prevention programs and urges participation in them as a way to become involved in the fight against substance abuse. (JM)
All links were checked and current on July 13, 2008.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
Zeta GroupSCOPE
Welcome to this Wiki Pathfinder on the subject of substance abuse for middle school teenagers. Substance abuse is a broad topic covering alcohol, tobacco, prescription, over-the-counter, and illegal drugs. Several theories abound on why some people become addicted to different substances and others do not. Various reasons include the belief that it is due to genetics, self-esteem issues, a desire to fit in, wealth, poverty, culture, influence of the media, or just plain bad luck. Despite numerous theories on how people become addicted, one fact remains indisputable and that is that prevention of substance abuse is our most effective weapon in the fight against it. Even people who are not using drugs are impacted by the far-reaching implications to families, economies, states, and countries.This pathfinder provides resources in the form of carefully selected and evaluated books, journal articles, and web sites geared toward the middle school teenager for research purposes and personal exploration. They highlight findings in the following topical areas: how a teen’s family background, friends, and personality type influences the choices made on drug use, the multiple effects of drug use on individuals and societies, and effective drug prevention programs that are being used today in schools, communities, and social settings when just saying no is not enough. (JM)
Essential Questions:
How do young people's family background, friends and personality type influence the choices that they make on drug use?
How would you describe the effects of drug abuse on an individual, a family and society? Financial? Emotional? Physical?
Do you think drug prevention programs are successful? How would you design an effective program to prevent teen substance abuse?
How do young people's family background, friends and personality type influence the choices that they make on drug use?(EO)
Keywords:Drug abuse, causes, societal factors, genetic factors, peer pressure, alcoholism, substance abuse, steroids, medication abuse.
BOOKS
Wilkinson, Beth. Drugs and Depression. Center City, MN: Hazelden Information & Educational Services, 1997.
The author’s main goal is to convince readers that difficult family situations and depression – which often drives youth to experiment with drugs – will not be alleviated by medications or street drugs, but it will often make the situation worse. She recommends various ways to deal with depression without drugs. (EO)
Webb, Margot. Drugs and Gangs. New YorK: Rosen Publishing Group, 1995.
The book discusses not only how gangs and illegal drug dealing are connected, but the effects of various substances and how to avoid getting involved with criminal goups. (EO)
Hyde, Margaret O and John F. Setard. Alcohol 101: An Overview For Teens. Brookfield, CT: Twenty-First Century Books, 1999.
This is an excellent overview of drinking in society, both in moderation in extreme forms. The authors discuss general attitudes, addiction, connection with other risky behaviors and possible criminal consequences as well as how to get help. (EO)
Hyde, Margeret O. Drugs 101. Minneapolis, MN: Lerner Publishing Group, 2003.
The author discusses not only the effects of commonly used drugs, but also related legal and criminal issues. She gives solid advice on where to turn with drug related problems, as well as further reading both in print and online. (EO)
JOURNAL ARTICLES
Bower, Bruce. "Without Substance." Science News 173.14 (05 Apr. 2008):
211. Middle Search Plus. EBSCO. Madison Public Library, Madison NJ. 12 July 2008
<http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=mih&AN=31643992&site=ehost-live>.
This article reports on the results of a small research projects that aimed to find out whether ADHD or the drugs administered to tread ADHD had any effect on young adults’ later drug abuse. The study found that ADHD patients treated early had about the same percentage of later drug abuse as the control group, but if left untreated, ADHD increased the likelihood of adult onset drug abuse. (EO)
"Prescription Drugs: Their Use and Abuse." Science World 62.4 (06 Mar. 2006): 13. Middle Search Plus. EBSCO. Madison Public Library, Madison, NJ. 12 July 2008 <http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=mih&AN=19720948&site=ehost-live>.
The article discusses the common ways for teenagers to abuse medications, their possible reasons and the associated dangers. According to the author, the reason for the growth of subscription drug abuse is easy availability and the mistaken belief that they are not as dangerous as street drugs. (EO)
Stockwell, Cassidy. "Prescription Problems." Scholastic Math 28.2 (19 Nov. 2007): 6. Middle Search Plus. EBSCO. Madison Public Library, Madison, NJ. 12 July 2008 <http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=mih&AN=27426507&site=ehost-live>.
Tom Hedrick, spokesperson of Partnership for a drug-free America, discusses the possible causes and dangers of medication abuse. He points out how reasons for self-medication are also dependent on gender. (EO)
WEB BASED RESOURCES
NIDA For Teens: The Science Behind Drug Abuse. 2008. National Institute On Drug Abuse. <http://teens.drugabuse.gov/>.
The “Real Stories” section of this website contains first person accounts of teenagers who developed an addiction. They give their reasons for using drugs and how they recovered. The website’s main purpose is to educate young adults (age 12-17) on the effects and dangers of commonly abused substances. A glossary, various games and quizzes help students understand the facts. Tips and phone numbers are included for addiction counseling. (EO)
Volkow, Nora D.. "Drug Abuse And Addiction." National Institute on Drug Abuse: The Science of Abuse and Addiction. 11 June 2008. NIDA. 13 Jul 2008 <http://www.nida.nih.gov/scienceofaddiction/addiction.html>.
This page is part of a booklet that describes our newest understanding of drug addiction. It gives common reasons why people first try drugs, risks factors for addiction, and how the brain changes after repeated use of substances. Aimed at older teens and adults, the page also answers the commonly asked question: why do some people get addicted while others do not. (EO)
Drug Abuse and Substance Abuse Information. 2008. Partnership For a Drugfree America. < http://www.drugfree.org/>
The website contains articles about the newest trends, action alerts for parents, statistics and research results. The teen link allows students to check how they or their friends stand with drugs, allows them to upload stories of their own drug use on a moderated page where advice is often found next to the users’ questions. Movie clips make the site attractive and easy to understand for both teens and parents. (EO)
How would you describe the effects of drug abuse on an individual, a family and society? Financial? Emotional? Physical? (SS)
Kewords:drug/substance abuse, financial effect/consequences, society, poverty, family relations, financial effects, physical effects, crime, addiction.
WEB BASED RESOURCES
KidsHealth.org (SS)
http://kidshealth.org/teen/drug_alcohol/drugs/know_about_drugs.html
Targeted to teenagers, this Web page offers a general overview of drug use, how teenagers approach drugs, and a comprehensive listing of common legal and illegal drugs. Each listing contains the drug’s street names, common usage, addictiveness, and the effects and dangers of using that particular drug on the body.
CheckYourself.com (SS)
http://checkyourself.com/Resources.aspx
This Web page also offers a drug database that compares the “hype” of a drug with the “reality”, including long-term physical detriments. The Web site additionally offers first-hand accounts of teenagers and the negative consequences of their drug abuse on their lives and their families.
JOURNAL ARTICLES
GET THE FACTS: Drug Abuse Puts Your Whole Body at Risk (SS)
“GET THE FACTS: Drug Abuse Puts Your Whole Body at Risk”. Science World. 63(13), 16 April 2007, 20-21. Retrieved from Middle Search Plus.
A concise reference to how drugs can affect the various systems within your body, as well as how drug abuse can lead to major health concerns such as heart disease. The mental consequences of drug use are also presented, including paranoia and depression.
'E' Is for Empty (SS)
D'Angelo, Laura. "'E' Is for Empty." Junior Scholastic, 105(10) (2003): 16. Retrieved from Middle Search Plus.
This article recounts the experiences of a teenager who successfully fought drug addiction. It explores the reasons why he started taking drugs, the effects of Ecstacy on his body and how and why he realized that he needed to quit.
BOOKS
Drug Abuse & Teens: A Hot Issue (SS)
Mastine, Shelagh Ryan. Drug abuse & teens: A hot issue. Berkeley Heights, NJ: Enslow Publishers, 2000.
Using real-life examples of drug abuse and its lethal consequences, the book reveals the physical and psychological tolls drug use has on the individual. The overall cost to society is also discussed, as well as how to find help.
Drug abuse: opposing viewpoints (SS)
Roleff, Tamara (ed). Drug abuse: Opposing viewpoints. Farmington, Mich : Greenhaven Press, 2005.
The Opposing Viewpoints series of books offers teenagers a variety of topics that are argued from differing positions. This book on drug abuse includes debate about whether illicit drugs are harmful, the causes of abuse and addiction, the constitutionality of drug testing, and the legalization of drugs in the United States. It discusses the War on Drugs and argues both its effectiveness and benefit.
Dangerous Legacy: The Babies of Drug-taking Parents (SS)
Sonder, Ben. Dangerous Legacy: The Babies of Drug-taking Parents. New York: Franklin Watts, 1994.
This book offers a sobering look at how poor decisions on the part of parents can lead to unhealthy children. Beginning with an overview of drugs’ role in America, it discusses cocaine/crack, opiates, alcohol, tobacco/marijuana, and their subsequent effects on an unborn baby.
The House that Crack Built (SS)
Taylor, Clark. The House that crack built. San Francisco: Chronicle Books, 1992.
Seemingly a children’s picture book, The House that Crack Built offers a poignant look at how drug use affects people in different countries and in different situations: from teenagers, gang members, crack-addicted babies, and the farmers who are forced to earn a living by producing the coca crop.
The war on drugs: opposing viewpoints (SS)
Thompson, Stephen (ed). The war on drugs: Opposing viewpoints. Farmington, Mich: Greenhaven Press, 2005.
Also offering differing points of view, this book focuses on the United States’ office “War on Drugs.” Arguments are made regarding drug legalization, preventative programs, and mandatory minimum sentencing. Additionally, one debate is conducted on the role of drug use in supporting terrorism—one consequence of drug use that reaches beyond the individual, family, or city.
OTHER
“The Impact of Illicit Drug Use on American Institutions: Compromising the Nation’s Health” (SS)
Available at: http://www.drugfree.org/Portal/About/
While intended for an adult audience by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America, this white paper presents a detailed overview of how drug use affects American families, society at large, and particular American institutions such as the educational, social welfare, healthcare, and criminal justice systems. It additionally enumerates the growing trends in illicit drug use nationally, as well as drug use among the poor and minority groups.
Do you think drug prevention programs are successful? How would you design an effective program to prevent teen substance abuse? (JM)
Keywords:substance/drug abuse, addiction, prevention, programs, resistance, avoidance, education, abatement, cessation
drug-free, anti–drug, prescription drugs, OTC (over the counter) drugs, club drugs, tobacco, alcohol, illegal
youth, teens, teenagers, kids, students
(All sources below are cited in APA format)
WEB BASED RESOURCES
TeensHealth
http://kidshealth.org/teen/
TeensHealth provide teens and families with accurate, up-to-date, and jargon-free health information they can use. On the Web since 1995, it is the largest and most visited site providing doctor-approved health information about children from before birth through adolescence. There are separate areas for kids, teens, and parents - each with its own design, age-appropriate content, and tone. There are literally thousands of in-depth features, articles, animations, games, and resources - all original and all developed by experts in the health of children and teens. The link to “Drugs and Alcohol” contains information, articles, and further resources for teens on topics such as smoking, drinking, and drugs. (JM)
National Association of State Alcohol &Drug Abuse Directors/National Prevention Network
http://www.nasadad.org/index.php?doc_id=24
The National Prevention Network (NPN), the prevention component of NASADAD, is an association of professionals dedicated to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention programs. They offer services to reduce and prevent the number of problems associated with those substances and to promote well-being and health. The “Prevention” tab on the left of the homepage links to several web sites for organizations and facilities that maintain a strong focus on alcohol and other drug abuse and addiction prevention. (JM)
Stop Alcohol Abuse
http://www.stopalcoholabuse.gov
This site is a portal of Federal government resources for information on underage drinking and ideas for combating this issue. People interested in underage drinking prevention—including students, parents, educators, community-based organizations, and youth—will find a wealth of valuable information here. There are three action guides--specifically for families, communities, and educators and these guides highlight what each group can do to reduce underage alcohol use in America and help prevent the problems underage drinking causes. Young people often face the challenge of standing up to peer pressure and deciding not to use alcohol. The resources found by clicking on the “Youth” tab at the top of the homepage will help them take a stand against underage alcohol use and discover fun, alcohol-free ways to spend their time. (JM)
Teen Help
http://www.teenhelp.com
TeenHelp.com was developed for parents of teens as well as teens going through common adolescent development issues. It has a team of article writers and editors across the U.S. The goal is to educate and bring awareness to parents and teens on various issues. Although there are Google ads on the site, it offers numerous articles on alcohol and drug abuse and their prevention among youth. (JM)
BOOKS
Aue, P.W. (2006). Teen drug abuse. Detroit, MI: Thomson/Gale.
Several substance abuse topics are presented with different viewpoints from various sources so you can make up your own mind about substance abuse issues. The book contains charts to help explain the information and there are cartoons to lighten up the subject matter. Each chapter has discussion questions and a bibliography of periodicals for further research. (JM)
Jasper, M. (2003). Teenagers and substance abuse. Dobbs Ferry, NY: Oceana Publications.
In addition to looking at teen substance abuse, this books talks about the efforts and strategies used by schools and other groups to stop illegal drug and alcohol use, including the government’s crackdown on the Internet for selling “club drugs.” (JM)
Karson, J. (2007). Teen addiction. Detroit, MI: Greenhaven.
Personal accounts, case studies, and factual essays are presented covering topics such as how the media promotes alcohol and cigarettes, what some of the different factors are that cause teen addiction and also its prevention and treatment. (JM)
Mezinski, P. (2004). Drugs explained: the real deal on alcohol, pot, ecstasy, and more. New York: Amulet Books.
This book offers solid information and advice for students in grades 7-10 in a friendly, non-preachy, 3-part style including a teen’s diary in part 1, the effect of drugs and their avoidance in part 2, and a debate over legalization of drugs in part 3. In addition the book has statistics about teen drug use, a self-test with answers, and a table of principal substances. Best of all, its funny cartoons and portable size add appeal for reluctant readers. (JM)
JOURNAL ARTICLES
(Retrieved from the Middle Search Plus database)A Day in the life of a teen. (2006). Science World, 62(13), 8-11.
http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdf?vid=137&hid=106&sid=750beec5-53ed-4891-9b0d-352a8b7c2bb4%40sessionmgr107
It’s important for teens to make good decisions in social settings where substance abuse may occur. This article provides teens with scripted responses for those awkward situations as well as facts and colorful graphs about drug use from the National Institute on Drug Abuse about how many teens abuse drugs, the types of drugs they abuse and teens’ perceptions on the subject. (JM)
Adair, J. (2000, March). Tackling Teens' No. 1 Problem. Educational Leadership, 57(4), 44-48.
http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdf?vid=133&hid=106&sid=750beec5-53ed-4891-9b0d-352a8b7c2bb4%40sessionmgr107
The article examines how middle and high schools in the U.S. are handling substance abuse then gives an in-depth look at Project Alert, a school drug prevention plan designed for middle schools that uses role play, videos, brainstorming, etc. to teach refusal skills and how to behave in social settings when substances are offered. (JM)
Daly, M. (2005). Clean teens. Current Health 2, 31(8).
http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?vid=141&hid=106&sid=750beec5-53ed-4891-9b0d-352a8b7c2bb4%40sessionmgr107
An empowering article emphasizing that choosing not to get involved in substance abuse is a personal decision that merits respect and advocates that teens participate in alternative activities and organizations. It explains how a teen may remain friends with others who party while gracefully refusing and remaining socially responsible. (JM)
Winning the Fight Against Drugs. (1999, February). Current Health 1, 22(6), 6-12.
http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?vid=130&hid=106&sid=750beec5-53ed-4891-9b0d-352a8b7c2bb4%40sessionmgr107
This article enumerates several ways that young people can fight substance abuse and become aware of drugs and their effects. It asks students to examine their values and choose their friends wisely while also providing 10 suggestions for what to say when others won’t take “no” for an answer. It provides a list of several drug prevention programs and urges participation in them as a way to become involved in the fight against substance abuse. (JM)
All links were checked and current on July 13, 2008.